Ep 171: When Trauma Doesn't Stay Boxed Up

Law enforcement stress doesn't just stay on the job, it can come crashing into family life. Retired Detective Jody Thompson shares how a personal crisis brought years of hidden trauma to the surface and how he and his wife found a path to healing.

Short Episode Summary
In this episode, Detective (ret.) Jody Thompson opens up about the personal crisis that nearly cost him his wife during childbirth — a moment that triggered suppressed memories from years of responding to traumatic calls. You'll hear:

How suppressed trauma can resurface years later

The impact of cumulative stress on officers and families

How Jody and his wife navigated recovery together

Why younger officers need to face trauma early, not bury it

Practical ways law enforcement couples can talk, heal, and grow stronger

Hosted by Cyndi Doyle — licensed professional counselor, author of Hold the Line, and founder of Code4Couples®. Cyndi helps first responder couples strengthen relationships and build resilience against the unique challenges of law enforcement life.

📖 Grab Cyndi's book Hold the Line: The Essential Guide to Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship → https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews

🎤 Book Cyndi to speak or train with your department → https://code4couples.com/training/

00:00 – Introduction & Jody's background
04:30 – The childbirth crisis that changed everything
10:00 – Nightmares and resurfacing trauma
18:00 – Law enforcement marriage under pressure
25:00 – Choosing to leave the job for family
32:00 – Advice for young officers on handling trauma
39:00 – Closing thoughts & message of hope